After he explored his college options, Conor Smith decided to choose Marian University because of his interest in athletics and exercise science. After completing a bachelor’s degree, he planned to continue his studies in a graduate program and become a physical therapist.

“A big part of what attracted me to Marian was the opportunity to build personal relationships with faculty and coaches, which isn’t always possible at Division I and Division II schools. Coach Holman really showed interest in me, both as a person and an athlete. I felt like I would grow the most at Marian. And I wanted to be part of Coach Holman’s program,” Smith recalls.

Academically, Smith has studied biomechanics and related subjects through classes like ESS 435: Fitness Testing and Exercise Prescription. “That was a good class. We utilized case studies to evaluate individual fitness profiles, ran formulas to identify performance variables, and then developed unique training plans for each case.” He plans to complete an internship working with athletes to improve physical efficiency and performance before graduation.

But Smith, an Indianapolis native and North Central High School graduate, is a young man with many interests. To save money while in college, he began cutting and styling his own hair. He became so good that he now he cuts hair for his male friends and teammates. “I enjoy cutting hair because, in a sense, it’s like creating a piece of artwork. Every cut is unique but takes skill.”

Smith is also interested in the world of business, especially the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship. “About halfway through my sophomore year, my passion for physical therapy began to shift and I decided to add a minor in business to my studies. After completing BUS 109, I felt like a spark had been ignited. I like the fact that many of my business classes are taught by professors who have corporate experience. So by the time I began my junior year, I decided to double-major in finance. My grandfather is a financial advisor and I’m going to job-shadow him this summer.”

Outside of athletics and academics, Smith is active in other aspects of campus life. For the upcoming 2018-19 academic year, he will serve as a Presidential Ambassador, representing the university and the student body at high-profile on- and off-campus events.

He will also serve as vice president of Marian’s Campus Activities Board (CAB).“I applied for the CAB position because I want to help other students get involved, explore their interests, and build a strong community. Since my freshman year, the university hasn’t stopped growing. We’ve opened new facilities and expanded programs. As campus continues to grow, I think CAB can be a good resource for creating positive changes, like building an even stronger social atmosphere. I hope we can create some new events and increase the numbers of students who participate in CAB activities.”

His advice for new college students? “Don’t be afraid to change your majors or broaden your horizons and add a second major in a field that interests you. Practice good time management so you can still have fun but keep your stress to a minimum. And even though you may not want to believe it, get plenty of sleep. It really helps when you have to get up for an early class the next morning and start your day.”